Thousands of Britons are at risk of missing out on a £150 boost to their bank accounts.
850,000 people could miss out on the Warm Home Discount if they do not apply before the deadline passes – and it’s just days away.
You have until Friday, October 13 to apply, or risk losing the extra benefit to help with energy bills.
Caroline Abrahams CBE, charity director at Age UK, said: “Sadly we know energy prices will stay high this winter so it’s never been more important to check whether you can claim some extra help, so you have enough money to keep warm when it gets really cold.
“The Government has put extra money aside for older people who are struggling to make ends meet, enough to make a real difference, but to get it you have to claim Pension Credit – and well over half a million pensioners are missing out just because they haven’t claimed it.
“Every penny counts so we urge any older person who is feeling the pinch to contact Age UK for advice and a free benefits check.
“A successful claim for Pension Credit would top up your weekly income, giving you the confidence to keep the heating on during the colder months ahead.”
If you or your partner receive the Guarantee Credit portion of your Pension Credit and your elecricity supplier is signed up to the Warm Home Discount scheme, you will receive your payment automatically.
The eligibility requirements for Warm Home Discount changed last winter, Age UK warns.
To qualify, you or your partner must have an account with a participating electricity supplier, and one of you must claim one of the following:
- The Guarantee Credit portion of Pension Credit
- A different ‘qualifying benefit’ (if you have high energy costs)
The qualifying benefits include the Savings Credit portion of Pension Credit, Universal Credit and Housing Benefit.
